There are many ways to approach your job and/or internship search, but most are likely to take time and dedication. Industries and employers often hire on annual cycles, and application processes themselves can take several weeks to even a few months. Patience is key. Remember to be kind to yourself.
Job & Internship
Search Strategies
It is likely that your search will include a variety of strategies which might include sifting through position listings, scrolling job boards, contacting folks in your network, or seeking new connections who can help get you where you want to be.
We encourage you to take advantage of University job search resources while you're a student at UO Portland, including connecting with Career Advancement for a career consultation.
Job Search Platform Resources
- Handshake is where you can find on-campus, off-campus, and work-study jobs, in addition to volunteer and internship opportunities.
- Build your LinkedIn Profile to attract (WC) potential employers and showcase your professional skills
- LinkedIn Alumni Tool
- LinkedIn Learning and Pathway "The Job Hunt"
Portland Internship Experience
UO undergraduate students an apply for the Portland Internship Experience or PIE, a paid summer internship program in Portland that connects students with community businesses and nonprofits. During this experience, students will build their professional skills while making an impact in the local community. Students will also have opportunities for community engagement with their fellow PIE students, allowing for both professsional and personal development. Applications for students typically open in early January and remain open through early February.
Student workers and work study jobs at UO Portland
Student workers support many departments on campus. Student job are often available in IT, campus events, the print center, Student Life, the fabrication lab, and the library. Jobs are typically posted in Handshake and highlighted in the Portland campus newsletter, the Quick Quack.
Support in writing and editing your resume and cover letters
Your resume and cover letter serve as a potential employer's first impression of your experience and skillset, helping them assess whether you are a strong candidate for the role. The University Career Center offers digital resources designed to guide you through writing and editing your resume and cover letters. You can also meet with a Portland Career Advancement staff member either in-person or virtually to workshop your application materials and personalize them to the job description for which you are applying.
Interviewing practice
Practicing your interview skills can build your confidence and help you prepare for an upcoming interview. Online interviewing platforms, new interviewing methods, and tips for practicing interview skills are all available for UO students. Our Career Advancement staff can answer questions and help you prepare for both in-person and virtual interviews.
Salary Negotiation
Whether you're an entry level candidate, career-change, or an experienced professional re-entering your industry, salary negotiation skills always come in handy. Below you'll find resources to build your confidence as you scrutinize your job offer, measure your value as a professional, and determine your next steps. Not all offers may be worth negotiating, but having a strategy is key to succeeding if you choose to provide a counteroffer to their initial proposal.
Graduate-Level Writing Support
Graduate students can receive up to three hours of support per term with dedicated writing coach, Alex Weinstein. Alex has 20 years of experience as an academic editor and currently teaches doctoral students at Lewis and Clark. Schedule an appointment through Calendly or by emailing her at aweinst6@uoregon.edu.
Undergraduate-Level Writing Support
Undergraduate students can access writing support services through the Online Writing Lab (OWL), where you can upload a piece of writing and get feedback from a Eugene-based tutor within two business days.